Condoleezza Rice (Condi) is from Birmingham Ala., where I live.
I am told that she grew up in a house not very far from where I once lived, where her father ran a small church and was a preacher, and where her mother played the piano. Condi's father conducted biracial Bible-studies and I know of ladies who remember the seven year old sportive Condi playing piano and helping with errands.
I am very proud that a colored woman from Birmingham has grown for the highest offices in the world. While I do not share her views or policies, I was proud of her appointment as National Security Advisor then, and even more so now for her appointment as Secretary of State.
© Vikas Kamat
But apparently the African American community of Birmingham is not proud. She is even treated with contempt.
When I heard this, my first reaction was what?!
Then I dug deeper, and here are my thoughts:
- Condi is despised by blacks, not for her shortcomings or qualities, but due to her association with President Bush. I am convinced of it.
- Perhaps Condi doesn't represent the blacks. Just like the newly elected senator of Indian descent, Bobby Jindal (R. Louisiana) doesn't represent Indian Americans.
- "What has Condi done for fellow African Americans?" one could ask, and the answer would be "nothing". It is the same accusation against Colin Powell. Their contribution to the African-American community pales compared to someone like Jesse Jackson. However, I am disappointed to ask why can't a black man (or woman) get recognition for rising above the racial politics? Abe Lincoln belonged to us all, not just to whites or Republicans. Gandhi is a role model to us all, not just for Hindus or Indians.
- My prediction for 2008 polls: It is going to be Condi Vs Hillary election. Woman Vs Woman. Black Vs White. Brilliant Career Vs Brilliant Career. (Condi has recently been chanting "My dad told me I could become President of USA, even though I couldn't buy a hamburger in Woolworth's then")
Update Nov.20. Many readers have written that Condi gets no love, because she is untrustworthy, and a manipulator of facts.
Update Dec. 8 '04. I saw Donald Knuth (who is like a demigod) withdraw his warm opinion of Condi. (via Rogers Cadenhead)
